6 luxury gyms that could pass for nightclubs

Luxe gym: U Energy in Dubai and Beirut

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Image by: ELLE Canada
By: Carli Whitwell
Source: Uenergy Dubai

We had a blast trying to suss out the most extravagant fitness club in the Middle East (one in Dubai allowed only six members to work out at the time.) In the end, we loved the vibe of this can’t-stop, won’t-stop venue, which has a mixed martial arts cage, running track and even boasts a mixologist who makes protein shakes at is Dubai location. They also have a sister studio in Beirut. READ MORE: Freeze away the fat?

Luxe gym: The Houstonian

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Image by: ELLE Canada
By: Carli Whitwell
Source: The Houstonian

This “fitness country club” in Houston – part of a sprawling 18-acre hotel and spa complex (the fitness centre alone is 175,000 square feet) – costs up to $28,000 to join. (There’s currently a waiting list.) Our favourite parts: the dozen or so tennis courts, boxing ring and three pools. Sign us up, pretty please! READ MORE: One woman's journey to reboot her life

Gravity Club in Singapore

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Image by: ELLE Canada
By: Carli Whitwell
Source: Fitness First

Just 999 people will be invited (that’s right, it’s an invite-only gym) to join this 17,000 square foot club set to open in Singapore in late 2015. (We’re showing another one of their facilities here.) The pricey promise? A “luxury wellness experience” complete with individualized programs, personalized vitamin regimens, and even an app. There are also conference rooms in case busy executives need to meet before they muscle up. READ MORE: The real reason you eat ice cream after a breakup

Luxe gym: Equinox in Toronto

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Image by: ELLE Canada
By: Carli Whitwell
Source: Equinox

“It’s not fitness. It’s life.” So goes the Equinox tagline. We agree – if life was full of beautiful, sweaty people exercising in designer workout gear in soft-lit studios. As beauty editors, we’re particularly partial to the Kiehl’s bodywash and lotion in the club-like changerooms. (If you’re looking for the ultimate in indulgence, New York’s E at Equinox has just 50 members.) READ MORE: Science explains your silly side and why you shouldn’t start your meal with a drink

Luxe gym: David Barton Gym in Miami

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Image by: ELLE Canada
By: Carli Whitwell
Source: David Barton Gym

This sleek 30,000-square-feet space is a fitness lover’s dream. We imagine you’d spend your first few visits getting a workout by simply exploring the gigantic space, including its 28-foot rock climbing wall, basketball court and steam and sauna rooms. READ MORE: Sunburn art: What is it and why is it dangerous?

Luxe gym: Workshop Gymnasium at the Bulgari Hotel in London

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Image by: ELLE Canada
By: Carli Whitwell
Source: Bulgari Hotel

Consider this the bottle-service equivalent of fitness centres. Membership costs over $10,000 a year (plus a registration fee). It’s well worth the dough. Each new member gets a framework assessment – a fancy term for fitness evaluation – for a curated-for-you workout plan in the plush space, which was designed by Milan legend Antonio Citterio. Also, Rosie Hungtinton-Whiteley’s model younger bro is a performance specialist (read: trainer) here. It’s also attached to a spa! READ MORE: Can smoking green tea help kick your nicotine habit?